Offshore staff
GOTHENBURG, Sweden – SKF USA Inc. and Vantage Drilling Inc. have combined resources to improve the reliability of the Vantage Titanium Explorer and Platinum Explorer drillships. These vessels are designed for operation in the deepest waters of the Gulf of Mexico and other offshore global basins of oil and gas exploration.
Based on SKF’s experience in the application of condition-monitoring systems and Vantage’s philosophy of improving the mechanical reliability of its drilling ships, these ships will be equipped with a comprehensive monitoring system for the propulsion and positioning thrusters.
SKF undertook a study of the thruster mechanical system, including bearings, lubrication, gearboxes, and drive motors to design a condition-monitoring solution, supported by remote diagnostics services that will provide Vantage with timely information about the mechanical health of their thrusters, along with advanced warning of issues that could impact drilling or propulsion system operation.
Application of this system, coupled with the remote diagnostics services provided by SKF, will enable Vantage to comply withAmerican Bureau of Shipping (ABS) guidelines for condition-based maintenance procedures.
A factor in maintaining ABS certification is the monitoring strategy and data analysis process that SKF will provide from its recently certified SKF Solution Factory in Houston.
12/16/2014
